International Grand Prix dressage rider and trainer Joanna Fisher shares her thoughts on getting prepared for the dressage season ahead.

“I often get asked “what should my goals be”?

Well, I always say without a goal or dream there is no plan of success.

Each rider must set individual goals and I always try and encourage my dressage clients to aim higher than they believe achievable. Although I am confidentially happy to believe we all have GrandPrix running through our veins, some take a little longer to get there… but that aside, let’s try and keep it in sight!

I was always told “Aim for the stars to land on the moon.”

This saying applies to life as well as horses!

If you are working at Novice, then I would happily say, let’s aim for Medium and work our way up. After all, let’s not forget that dressage is basically disciplined schooling and this can constantly be increased and achieved with patience and care.

Believe in yourself and your four legged friend- because training is based on understanding…. consistency pays off.

When you ride, always keep in mind it’s for pleasure and to create a bond between horse and rider. Keep your aids consistent and the same.

Work on your position, work on your seat and your hands. A quiet rider is easier for the horse to understand the aids given and more pleasure to be watched by spectators.

Enjoy your riding and keep sending in your questions and problems for me to answer!

Good luck, let’s make 2019 even better than we imagined.”

Joanna xx

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Joanna has written a collection of children’s books based on her horses over the years.

It has been published by award winning Candy Jar books and currently available in Waterstones and being read in schools. Click here to link to her website: www.stablegossip.com. She also has a dressage website which can be found at http://www.joannafisherdressage.com/

Joanna has written a collection of children’s books based on her horses over the years.

It has been published by award winning Candy Jar books and currently available in Waterstones and being read in schools. Click here to link to her website: www.stablegossip.com. She also has a dressage website which can be found at http://www.joannafisherdressage.com/